Energy Deal: The Solomon Islands Electricity Authority and the Asian Development Bank have signed up to build the country’s first large-scale, grid-connected solar project in Honiara, using private investment and with ADB acting as transaction adviser on tendering and project prep; a battery storage need will be assessed as diesel still powers 98% of the grid. Politics & Governance: Outgoing PM Jeremiah Manele used his final press conference to urge peace and unity ahead of Friday’s leadership vote, framing the transition as proof Solomon Islands democracy is “maturing.” Ocean Protection Push: PNG says it will create a huge “no-take” marine protected area as part of the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves, while Solomon Islands declined to endorse a new regional ocean declaration, citing customary governance and constitutional due process. Jobs & Growth Outlook: The World Bank warns Pacific growth will slow in 2026 to about 2.8% as fuel, shipping and weaker tourism bite—highlighting youth jobs and water infrastructure as key levers. Business Moves: SICCI welcomed the relocation of east Honiara buses away from the Central Market to ease traffic and support smoother commerce.